The first cohort of Australian Army sappers have commenced training on new combat engineering vehicles. Soldiers will train at the School of Armour at Puckapunyal to learn to operate the vehicles, navigate terrain, clear obstacles, and provide essential support to armoured units in combat scenarios throughout a three-month course.
Head Land Capability, Major General (MAJGEN) Richard Vagg, said the combat engineering vehicles would provide soldiers with enhanced protection and mobility.
“The integration of these combat engineering vehicles into our combined arms fighting system significantly reduces the need for our soldiers to conduct high-risk operations on foot, such as clearing mines or obstacles," MAJGEN Vagg affirmed.
As part of the LAND 907 project, Army will acquire up to 29 M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles and up to 17 M1110 Joint Assault Bridges, collectively known as combat engineering vehicles. It is hoped that these new vehicles will enhance the safety of Australian soldiers in conflict.
The Assault Breacher Vehicle is equipped with a rocket-propelled explosive that can detonate hidden explosives and create a safe path for soldiers and vehicles. It also uses a mine plough and dozer blades to clear obstacles and mines, reshaping the battlefield as needed.
“These advanced capabilities enhance our soldiers’ lethality and survivability, and help ensure their safety and mission succes," MAJGEN Vagg stated.
The Joint Assault Bridges can deploy an 18.3-metre folding hydraulic bridge in under three minutes and is capable of supporting the weight of all military vehicles, including the M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank.
The majority of vehicles will be located in Townsville, Queensland, as part of the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment, 3rd Brigade.